Toward a Wind Energy Development in Argentina: A Policy Analysis

• In Event: Clean and Alternative Energies

Abstract

Argentina has received little attention in the literature dealing with renewable energy policy politics but being a country experiencing rapid socioeconomic and electricity transition, it is an important case for examination. In this paper, Argentina is analysed in relation to its embrace of wind energy. As a response of the electricity supply shortages faced since the mid 2000s, the country decided to look for different alternatives other than fossil fuels; one of these was renewable energy, especially wind power. Yet, having one of the most important domestic wind industries of South America, outstanding wind resources and previous regulation in the sector, Argentina did not consider deploying wind energy as a significant source to solve its electricity shortage. The aim of this study is to understand the country’s electricity policy, and especially how actors have committed to wind energy; the research explains why and how certain ideas, understandings, beliefs as well as interests (but not others) were adopted within Argentine’s electricity system. This single case study describes the policy process behind the development of wind energy and the way key actors related to this option, trying to identify supportive and hindering factors.

Author

• Moïra Jimeno